A detailed copperplate engraving by Johann Friedrich Bause depicting the German poet Christian Fürchtegott Gellert, complete with allegorical symbols.

This copperplate engraving by Johann Friedrich Bause depicts the German poet and philosopher Christian Fürchtegott Gellert (1715-1769). Bause, a prolific engraver based in Leipzig, was well-regarded for his technical precision in reproducing portraits of contemporary intellectuals and literary figures. The composition follows the conventions of eighteenth-century commemorative portraiture, presenting the subject within an oval frame that suggests a sculpted relief.

The portrait is accompanied by allegorical elements that reflect Gellert's contributions to literature and moral philosophy. Below the portrait, a putto sits beside a lyre and a collection of books, symbols of the poet's creative output. A theatrical mask rests on the base, referencing his work in drama and fable. The engraving technique demonstrates Bause's ability to render varied textures, from the soft curls of the wig and the fabric of the coat to the smooth, stone-like appearance of the frame and pedestal. The cross-hatching and fine line work create a sense of volume and depth, typical of the high-quality printmaking produced in Leipzig during this period.

Christian Fürchtegott Gellert was a central figure in the German Enlightenment, known for his fables and his influence on the development of German prose. This print serves as a visual record of his status in the cultural life of the eighteenth century. The work is based on an original painting by Anton Graff, as indicated by the inscription 'Graff effigiem pinx' at the bottom left. Bause's interpretation of Graff's portrait captures the intellectual gravity of the subject, balancing the formal requirements of a commemorative print with the delicate detail characteristic of the era's print culture.